Memorial Day Essay Contest

There is a saying that says “Home is where your story begins…”. Our memories, made as children, are essential to developing civic pride, and a love for country and community. Who can forget the sights and sounds of a magnificent parade and the hustle and bustle of a town-wide festival? Students in Kindergarten – Grade 5 have been invited to participate in the annual essay contest. Waterloo’s unique heritage, and the influence that our founders have had on the rest our country and all citizens, is remarkable! This contribution, originating from our “Home”, is something to honor and be proud of. While participating in the contest, students will learn about and make a personal connection to Memorial Day.

Each grade has a specific task that has been designed with grade levels and skills in mind while addressing the historic importance of Memorial Day in Waterloo. Student work will range from mini-posters to written essays.

Our youngest students will address the “what, when, why and how” of Memorial Day using pictures and words. Older elementary students will read historic documents and respond to a writing prompt. Judges will select two winners from each grade level. Winners will receive prizes and recognition during the Memorial Day weekend celebrations.

Middle School students will have an opportunity to participate in the creation of an assembly for their peers. The assembly will be designed to inform, engage and inspire. Students will research, assemble documents, pictures and videos , create stage props, and write original poetry and dialogue to design a presentation aimed at understanding of the sacrifices of our nation’s service members, both past and present, honoring the contributions of our community’s founders, and promoting civic engagement and participation in government and Memorial Day events.

High School students will be invited to join community members in service to the annual Celebrate/Commemorate committees. There are many opportunities for students to gain leadership, organizational, and technical skills, and create life-long memories, while working side-by-side with dedicated professionals, all with a common goal –to remember the work of our town’s founders, and ultimately, to honor the sacrifices of the men and women who gave their lives for our country.

Deadline for entries is May 10. Contest materials and additional details for K-5 are available from classroom teachers or by contacting Lisa Sessler (lisa.sessler@waterloocsd.org). Any Middle School/High School questions can be directed to Janelle Bradshaw (Janelle.bradshaw@waterloocsd.org).

All winners of the contest will receive a Celebrate Commemorate t-shirt. In addition, winners in grades 3-5 will receive $25 and will be recognized during the Memorial Day weekend.

Facebook

On behalf of Operation Build Up I would like to thank the celebrate commemorate committee members for their generous donation tonight. I know the family will greatly appreciate it. Merry Christmas! ... See MoreSee Less

Have you ever wondered how to get behind the scenes of an amazing Memorial Day weekend? Are you saying to yourself, I think I want to join a committee this year. Well we have an opportunity for you! Celebrate Commemorate is looking for new members to join several different committees. If this is something you are interested in or know someone that might be, please contact Sarah Smolinski at sarahemcmaster@yahoo.com or through our facebook page. We hope to hear from you soon. ... See MoreSee Less

This is a link to a playlist that includes all 9 of the Henry Welles Award winners, the link is in the upper left hand side of the video frame where you can jump to the previous winners ceremonies.The Waterloo Library and Historical Society is proud to announce the recipient for the 2018 Welles Award, Peter Houghton. The Welles Award, created by the Wa... ... See MoreSee Less

Photos!! May 25, 26, 27, 28 and 30.Enjoy this photo slideshow of some of the many events that took place during the Celebrate Commemorate weekend, May 25-28, 2018, in Waterloo, NY. More than 3... ... See MoreSee Less